Things to do in Ecuador

Stand among the perfectly cut stones of Ecuador's largest Inca archaeological site as the first light illuminates the Temple of the Sun.

Trek the rim of a stunning turquoise volcanic crater lake, descending to the water's edge or completing the full loop for breathtaking views of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Navigate blackwater tributaries, encounter howler monkeys and pink river dolphins, and learn from indigenous communities in one of Earth's most biodiverse reserves.

Walk through the best-preserved historic center in Latin America, where ornate churches, grand plazas, and centuries-old mansions line the narrow cobblestone lanes.

Fly out over a steep gorge on a simple swing at La Casa del Árbol, with the Tungurahua volcano looming behind.

Join locals at the bustling market for a bowl of fresh shrimp or fish ceviche, topped with crunchy corn nuts and served alongside a cold beer.

Straddle the equatorial line at Mitad del Mundo and perform hands-on experiments that supposedly work differently here, like balancing an egg on a nail.

Cling to the cliffs aboard Ecuador's most famous railway, zigzagging down a sheer mountainside on a restored section of the old Trans-Andean route.

Hike lush trails to tumbling cascades like the Reina waterfall, then ride the tarabita (cable car) over a canopy teeming with orchids and vibrant birds.

Wander the remains of the Incan city of Tomebamba with its terraces, aqueducts, and reconstructed temple to the sun, set in a peaceful botanical garden.

Photograph up to 16 species of hummingbirds, including the sword-billed hummer, as they buzz around feeders just a short stop from the Papallacta hot springs.

Tackle the glaciated summit of the perfectly cone-shaped Cotopaxi (5,897 m), a true mountaineering challenge that rewards climbers with a view of the Avenue of the Volcanoes.

Glide through the channels of the Gulf of Guayaquil to spot bottlenose dolphins, frigatebirds, and red mangroves, just a short drive from the city.

Walk among ripe cacao pods, taste the fresh white pulp, and see the traditional fermentation and roasting process before creating your own chocolate, in the Mindo cloud forest.

Climb the clock towers and narrow ladders of this neo-Gothic masterpiece, encountering gargoyles shaped like native animals and a sweeping panorama of Quito.

Ascend the 444 steps through a Bohemian district of restored wooden houses and art studios, ending at the lighthouse on Cerro Santa Ana for a view of the Guayas River.

Relax in naturally heated pools surrounded by high Andean páramo, with steam rising into the crisp air, a perfect apres-trek recovery near Quito.

Walk among 15 truncated pyramids built by the Quitu-Cara culture, an immense archaeological complex with astronomical alignments and panoramic views of the northern sierra.

Circle a pristine lake inside a collapsed volcano, with two lush islets in the center and the mighty Cotacachi peak as a backdrop, on a well-marked trail.

Join the lively crowd around Plaza Foch, where streets fill with open-air bars, salsa clubs, and live music venues that keep the party going into the early hours.

Bargain for colorful textiles, hand-carved masks, and alpaca sweaters at South America's largest indigenous market, where the Saturday spectacle overflows into Plaza de los Ponchos.

Surf the consistent breaks off this bohemian beach town, then kick back with a cocktail at a thatched-roof bar as bonfires dot the sand.

Visit a proud highland community known for its distinctive black wool attire and deep traditional knowledge, offering homestays and handmade jewelry workshops.

Ascend to the base camp of Ecuador's highest peak, standing at 5,000 meters and feeling the thin air, with the chance to later push toward the second-highest summit on Earth if you're acclimatized.

Join the lunch crowd at this bustling market stall to carve into succulent slow-roasted pig with crackling skin, served with llapingachos and mote.